Comparative Evaluation of 2% Chlorhexidine Gel and Triple Antibiotic Paste with Calcium Hydroxide Paste on Incidence of Interappointment Flare Up in Diabetic Patients: A Randomized Double‑Blinded Clinical Study

Abstract

Aim: Clinical evaluation and comparison of the effect of 2% chlorhexidine gel and triple antibiotic paste with calcium hydroxide on incidence of interappointment flare‑up in diabetic patients. Materials and Methods: Thirty‑six diabetes mellitus patients seeking endodontic treatment were assigned to three groups: Group I ‑ calcium hydroxide paste, Group II ‑ triple antibiotic paste, and Group III ‑ 2% chlorhexidine gel. Access opening and chemomechanical preparation was done followed by the placement of intracanal medicaments. Samples were then assessed for the incidence of intra‑appointment flare‑up at 1, 2, 3, 7, and 14 days using verbal rating scale. Obtained scores were statistically analyzed using one‑way ANOVA test and Tukey’s post hoc test. Results: Total incidence of interappointment flare‑up was found to be 13%. For all the groups, statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) was seen at days 1, 2, 3, and 7, with insignificant difference at day 14. Intragroup comparison showed statistically significant difference present between Group I and II and Group I and III with (P < 0.05) at days 1, 2, 3, and 7. No statistically significant difference was seen between Group II and III in all 14 days. Conclusion: Both triple antibiotic paste and 2% chlorhexidine gel were significantly effective for minimizing the interappointment flare‑up and postoperative symptoms in diabetic patients. 2% chlorhexidine gel found to be more effective clinically, as compared to other experimental groups.